Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The fundamental issue is to link the provisions in the Bill to local election candidate selections. I do not rule out reviewing the legislation after the 2014 local elections to see what has happened among political parties during the course of that election, but I do not want to be too prescriptive. People in all political parties, or none, should be trying to embrace what we are trying to do here anyway. Women are under-represented and have been since the foundation of the State. The situation will not change unless we take some action. We are taking a practical approach in the Bill. It is the first time it has ever happened. I hope political parties will, to borrow a well worn phrase, embrace the spirit of what we are trying to do here, which is to bring greater gender equality to candidate selection at general elections. I also hope the potential loss of half the funds from the State will focus minds.

With regard to Seanad elections, there is a panel system and representative bodies must make nominations for 43 of the 60 seats. I do not believe it is appropriate for me to dictate to those organisations that have only one nomination - others have the right to nominate two - and to be too prescriptive in telling them how to do their business. I would hope the organisations that have two nominations would nominate at least one women, on a voluntary basis in any event. We might make representations to the organisations to be mindful of gender balance in making their selections.